Hard · 6.5 mi · 2,200 ft · 3–4½ hr

The climb to the Sierra Buttes Fire Lookout is one of the defining hikes of the Lost Sierra. The trail rises from Packer Lake across exposed slopes and rocky high country before reaching a final series of metal stairs built into the summit rocks. At the top, the lookout seems suspended over the landscape. Upper and Lower Sardine Lakes rest directly below, with Packer Lake, Young America Lake, forested ridges, and distant peaks spreading in every direction.

The approach: The Packer Lake trailhead area, reached from Highway 49 by Packer Lake Road. Follow the exact AllTrails pin because the shorter Packer Saddle approach is a different route.

Along the way: A high-elevation climb through forest and increasingly exposed rocky terrain, followed by approximately 178 steep metal stairs to the lookout. The staircase and summit platform can feel dramatic for anyone uncomfortable with heights.

Host tip: Make the summit your morning adventure, then descend for an afternoon beside Packer Lake, Lower Sardine Lake, or Sand Pond. If the stairs feel like too much, the views from beneath the final lookout structure are still exceptional.

Before you go: Access around Packer Lake and the surrounding mountain roads can vary with snow, runoff, maintenance, and recent weather. The upper mountain is exposed to wind, lightning, strong sun, and sudden temperature changes. Avoid the summit during thunderstorms. This guide describes the Packer Lake approach, not the shorter Packer Saddle route.

Route or area information: https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/california/sierra-buttes-via-tamarack-lakes

Details for your plan

Why go

Choose Sierra Buttes for the region’s signature summit, astonishing lake views, a memorable final staircase, and one of the strongest senses of arrival anywhere in the Lost Sierra.

From the Lodge

Approximately one to one-and-a-half hours, depending on the route and seasonal road conditions

The idea

The signature lookout climb, approached from Packer Lake.

Keep exploring nearby

• Sierra Buttes via Tamarack Connector

• Sierra Buttes via the PCT from Sierra City